From application to arrival
Prepare your information, use the official application channel and check the issued document.
Prepare your application
Start with the official document list for your passport, purpose and legal residence.
Submit through the official channel
Follow the official instructions for where and how to submit.
Review the decision before departure
Check the passport details, dates and entry conditions on the permission you receive.
Check your trip dates
Count your travel days and compare your passport expiry with the entry rule.
What to prepare for your trip
Check each item as you prepare it. Labels show which documents are required, conditional, or recommended.
Your circumstances may require additional documents. Ticks track preparation, not eligibility or admission.
Details that can change your plans
Prepare vaccination certificates
The French and UK governments say yellow-fever vaccination proof is checked or required at DRC entry; the UK also flags polio proof in some circumstances. Ask a travel-health professional about medical eligibility and certificate rules.
Official guidanceA short-stay visitor visa does not permit paid work
The DRC tourism authority says paid activity is prohibited on a short-stay visitor visa. Seek the correct work permission before accepting paid activity.
Official guidanceConfirm the application route for your residence
The DGM operates an online visa portal, while some embassies use their own systems. UK guidance directs British applicants to the DRC embassy in the UK; confirm which process your consular jurisdiction accepts.
Official guidancePractical tips for Democratic Republic of the Congo
Small preparation steps to keep your travel information within reach.
Allow time for entry checks
The DRC National Tourism Office says short-stay visitors are photographed and fingerprinted at arrival. Keep your passport available for inspection.
Keep your passport with you
The DRC National Tourism Office says short-stay visitors must carry their passports during the visit.
Budget for the international flight exit charge
For an international departure flight, current French and UK guidance together list USD 55 in DRC exit charges (USD 50 Go Pass plus USD 5 statistics charge). Get an official receipt; domestic-flight charges differ.
Democratic Republic of the Congo at a glance
- Capital
- Kinshasa
- Currency
- CDF
- Calling code
- +243
Questions for this route
Do travelers with an ordinary passport from the United Kingdom need a visa for Democratic Republic of the Congo?
For tourism in Democratic Republic of the Congo, travelers using an ordinary passport from the United Kingdom should arrange an eVisa before travel. UK government guidance directs British visitors to the DRC embassy in the UK and suggests allowing two to three weeks.
How much passport validity do I need?
At least 6 months after arrival.
What if I’m going to work, study or stay longer?
This guide is for a short tourist visit on an ordinary passport. It does not establish eligibility for employment, study or residence. Use the destination’s official guidance for your actual purpose.
Does my country of residence change the answer?
Passport nationality and legal residence are different. This page starts with your passport. Residence can change where you apply and which application channel is available; an existing visa or residence permit may also create an exception. Check the official eligibility guidance for your circumstances.
Official websites
Use these government websites to confirm requirements and complete any application.
About this guide
This guide covers short tourist visits on an ordinary passport. Your nationality, residence, travel document and purpose can affect the entry conditions. Check the linked official guidance before travel; the border authority decides admission and your permitted stay.
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